In Memoriam: Vollrath Company Steward Terry Kohler

Terry Kohler, CEO of Windway Capital Corp., the parent corporation of Vollrath Co., died September 20. He was 82.

Kohler, the great-great grandson of company founder Jacob J. Vollrath, joined the Sheboygan, Wis., foodservice equipment manufacturer in 1963 and became its seventh president in 1976. He would later serve as chairman of the board of directors. In 1989, he transitioned to president and chairman of the board for Windway Capital, and remained on its board until a few months ago.

“Terry’s guidance and freedom that he provided enabled the Vollrath Company to achieve great accomplishments over the years,” said President/CEO Paul Bartelt. “As a former company president and chairman of the board of directors, his accomplishments were many. More importantly though, was his commitment to communities throughout the world. Although a large portion of his commitments came in the form of anonymous giving, he has supported many worthwhile causes ranging from education to conservation.”

The Kohler family, added Bartelt, “has a well-planned succession process that will play out over the next few months. The plan will ensure the company’s future as a family-controlled, privately held company.”

Kohler is survived by his wife Mary; three daughters; four stepchildren; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.